Grade 9 Drama Course: Exploring DNA Plays
Course Introduction
Welcome to the Grade 9 Drama course, where we will immerse ourselves in the world of DNA plays. This course is designed to engage students in the exploration of complex themes surrounding identity, ancestry, and the human experience through the lens of dramatic literature. The term "DNA play" refers to a genre of theater that unravels personal and societal genetics—navigating how our backgrounds shape who we are. Through performance, analysis, and collaboration, students will develop critical thinking and creative skills essential for appreciation and creation in the dramatic arts.
Course Goals and Aims
Course Goals:
- Explore the Themes of Identity and Heritage: Investigate how DNA and ancestry play a role in shaping personal and collective identities.
- Develop Acting and Performance Skills: Enhance abilities in acting, improvisation, and character portrayal within the context of DNA plays.
- Understand Dramatic Structure: Analyze the components that create compelling narratives in theater focused on DNA themes.
- Encourage Collaboration and Teamwork: Foster group dynamics through collaborative projects and peer feedback sessions.
Course Aims:
- To provide an understanding of the genre of DNA plays and their societal relevance.
- To develop critical analysis skills that allow students to interpret and evaluate dramatic texts.
- To cultivate creativity through performance, scriptwriting, and storytelling.
- To enhance communication skills by participating in discussions, presentations, and performances.
Course Outline
Lesson 1: Introduction to DNA Plays
- Objectives: Define what DNA plays are and explore their themes.
- Activities: Class discussion; watch selected clips from notable DNA plays.
- Assignment: Read excerpts from a DNA-based play (e.g., "My Name Is Asher Lev" adaptation).
Lesson 2: Historical Context of DNA in Theatre
- Objectives: Examine the evolution of DNA themes in theater.
- Activities: Lecture on the historical significance and sociological implications; group work to research different plays.
- Assignment: Write a short essay on the social implications of DNA plays.
Lesson 3: Character Development in DNA Plays
- Objectives: Analyze how DNA influences character motivation and conflict.
- Activities: Character-building exercises and improvisation based on given scenarios.
- Assignment: Create a character profile for an original DNA play character.
Lesson 4: Scriptwriting Workshop
- Objectives: Learn the fundamentals of scriptwriting focusing on DNA themes.
- Activities: Interactive workshop on structure, dialogue, and character arcs.
- Assignment: Draft the first scene of a proposed DNA play.
Lesson 5: Directing and Staging a DNA Play
- Objectives: Understand the responsibilities of a director and staging elements in a production.
- Activities: Exploration of staging techniques through practical exercises; group discussions.
- Assignment: Direct a short scene from a DNA play for peer performance.
Lesson 6: Performance Techniques
- Objectives: Develop skills in acting and performing emotionally charged scenes.
- Activities: Voice and movement workshops; practice with emotional range and expression.
- Assignment: Prepare a monologue from the character created in Lesson 3 for performance.
Lesson 7: Final Performance and Reflection
- Objectives: Showcase learned skills through a final performance.
- Activities: Perform original scenes in front of peers; reflection discussions on the learning journey.
- Assignment: Write a reflective piece on what was learned throughout the course and how it relates to personal identity.
References
- Stanislavski, Constantin. An Actor Prepares. Routledge, 1989.
- Fish, Linda. The DNA of Drama: Identity and Heritage in Contemporary Theatre. Palgrave Macmillan, 2015.
- Riffaterre, Michael. The Linguistic and Poetics of Contemporary Theatre. Purdue University Press, 2019.
- Weller, John. Staging Identity: The Evolution of DNA in Theater. Routledge, 2014.
- Houghton, William. Character and Conflict in DNA Plays. Theater Journal, vol. 50, no. 3, 2020, pp. 267-285.
This structured and engaging course is designed to inspire and challenge Grade 9 students. Through the lens of DNA plays, students will gain a deeper understanding of dramatic arts, encouragement to express their creativity, and tools to articulate their personal narratives.